Perito Moreno Glacier Travel Guide: Where History, Culture, and Nature Collide


The Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, Argentina, is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Unlike most glaciers, Perito Moreno continues to advance, creating dramatic ice-breaking events as chunks of ice crash into Lake Argentino.

Whether you’re walking along the glacier’s viewing platforms, taking a boat tour to see towering ice walls, or trekking on the glacier itself, Perito Moreno offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.


📍 Top Experiences at Perito Moreno Glacier

1️⃣ Glacier Viewpoints & Walkways

👀 Why Visit?

  • A network of elevated walkways offers breathtaking panoramic views of the glacier.
  • Walk along different levels to see ice formations up close.
  • Ideal for photography, wildlife spotting, and witnessing ice calving events.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A shot of the massive blue ice walls with visitors on the walkways

🎟 Tip: Visit early in the morning to experience quieter trails and soft morning light.


2️⃣ Boat Tour on Lake Argentino

🛥 Why Visit?

  • Get up close to the glacier’s massive ice walls from the water.
  • Witness huge chunks of ice breaking off and splashing into the lake.
  • A great perspective to appreciate the glacier’s immense scale.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A boat in front of the towering blue ice walls

🎟 Tip: Book a catamaran tour for the most comfortable viewing experience.


3️⃣ Glacier Trekking – Walk on the Ice

🥾 Why Visit?

  • Experience the thrill of walking on the glacier itself.
  • Choose between a mini-trek (1.5 hours) or a big ice trek (3-4 hours).
  • Explore deep blue crevasses, frozen caves, and natural ice formations.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A trekker standing on the icy blue surface with ice peaks behind

🎟 Tip: Wear waterproof pants and warm layers for the best experience.


4️⃣ Kayaking Near the Glacier

🚣 Why Visit?

  • A unique way to see the glacier from a different perspective.
  • Paddle through calm turquoise waters surrounded by floating icebergs.
  • Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A kayak floating in the icy waters near the glacier

🎟 Tip: No prior experience is needed, but be prepared for cold water.


5️⃣ Witnessing Ice Calving Events

Why Visit?

  • One of the most thrilling sights at Perito Moreno Glacier.
  • Listen to the thunderous sound of ice breaking off.
  • Best viewed from the main walkways or a boat tour.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A massive chunk of ice crashing into the lake, creating a splash

🎟 Tip: Be patient! Calving events happen at random but frequently throughout the day.


6️⃣ Drive the Scenic Route from El Calafate

🚗 Why Visit?

  • A stunning road trip through the Patagonian steppe and mountains.
  • Spot guanacos, condors, and other wildlife along the way.
  • Only 80 km from El Calafate, making it an easy day trip.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A winding road leading towards the glacier with mountains in the background

🎟 Tip: Stop at Lake Argentino’s viewpoints for some amazing landscape shots.


🚆 How to Get to Perito Moreno Glacier

By Air:

  • Fly into El Calafate International Airport (FTE) from Buenos Aires.

🚍 By Bus:

  • Daily buses run from El Calafate to Perito Moreno Glacier (1.5-hour ride).

🚖 By Car:

  • Rent a car in El Calafate for more flexibility.

🚢 By Boat:

  • Glacier cruises depart from Puerto Bandera, 47 km from El Calafate.

🚶 By Tour:

  • Many guided tours include transport, trekking, and boat experiences.

🌦 Best Time to Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

Summer (November–March): Best for warm temperatures, blue skies, and high activity levels.
🍂 Autumn (April–May): Fewer crowds, golden foliage, and still great views.
Winter (June–August): Fewer tourists, snow-covered landscapes, but colder conditions.
🌸 Spring (September–October): Best for wildflowers and wildlife spotting.

🕰 Opening Hours: Los Glaciares National Park is open from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.


🍽 What to Eat in El Calafate (Before or After Your Trip)

Cordero PatagónicoTraditional Patagonian roasted lamb.
Trucha PatagónicaFreshly caught trout from local lakes.
Empanadas de CorderoLamb-filled empanadas, a regional favorite.
Calafate Berry JamSweet jam made from local berries (legend says if you eat it, you’ll return to Patagonia!).
Mate TeaArgentina’s iconic herbal drink, perfect for warming up after the glacier.

🍷 Tip: Pair your meal with a Malbec wine from Mendoza for a perfect Patagonian experience!


Experience the Majesty of Perito Moreno Glacier!

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